Cethlenn facts for kids

Caitlín (pronounced "Kehlen") was an important figure in Irish mythology. She was the wife of Balor, a powerful leader of the Fomorians, and the mother of Ethniu. Caitlín was also a prophetess, meaning she could see the future. She warned Balor that he would be defeated by the Tuatha Dé Danann in a famous battle called the Second Battle of Magh Tuiredh. During this battle, she even wounded the Dagda, a major hero. She was also known by the nickname Cethlenn of the Crooked Teeth.

Her Name and Nicknames

Caitlín's name is pronounced "Kehlen" in modern Irish. Sometimes, her name is spelled to sound like this.

Her most famous nickname was Cethlenn of the Crooked Teeth. This came from Irish words that mean "twisted teeth" or "buck-toothed." Another version of her nickname meant "ravening tooth," suggesting she had a wide, gaping mouth.

Caitlín's Role in Mythology

The Great Battle of Magh Tuiredh

Caitlín played a part in the Second Battle of Magh Tuiredh. This was a huge battle between the Fomorians and the Tuatha Dé Danann. Even though she isn't always mentioned in every story about the battle, some old texts say she was there.

During this battle, Caitlín threw a javelin, a type of spear, at the Dagda. He was a very important leader of the Tuatha Dé Danann. The wound she gave him was so serious that it took 120 years for him to finally die from it! Stories about Caitlín wounding the Dagda are found in several old Irish writings. It is believed that Caitlín herself might have died in this battle.

Balor's Wife and Prophetess

While some older stories don't directly say it, later writings confirm that Caitlín was indeed Balor's wife. She was also known for her ability to predict the future.

In one story, Caitlín saw that Lug, a hero of the Tuatha Dé Danann, was their grandson. She then made a prophecy. She declared that once Lug arrived in Ireland, the Fomorians' time in power would end. This prediction came true when Lug eventually defeated Balor.

Connection to Enniskillen

There is a legend that connects Caitlín to the town of Enniskillen in County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland. Some local historians say that Caitlín was injured and swam to an island in Lough Erne, where she died. The name Enniskillen comes from the Irish Inis Cethlinn, which means "Cethlenn's island." This suggests a long-standing connection between the town and Caitlín.